Happy 2024! The first week back from the winter break has been smooth as everyone settled back into daily routines. Perhaps the new year will bring snow...it's looking like that could happen over the next week or so if the forecasts are accurate. As a reminder, we have a weather-related procedure that may come in handy soon: School Weather Closing.
Earlier this week, I presented the district's newly revamped 2022-23 Annual Report to the Board, which looks back at the previous school year with numerous data points, information, visual highlights, and points of pride. Here is some data that may be of interest:
- One of the benchmarks for academic effectiveness is how well our curriculum is preparing students for rigorous studies at the high school level. Last year, 42% of all GHS students took at least one Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) course, the most rigorous courses offered. Additionally, 13% of all students elected to take 3 or more AP and/or IB courses last year.
- Of the students taking AP exams, 67% scored a 3 (passing) or greater. Of the students taking IB exams, 85% scored a 4 (passing) or greater. These exams are among the most difficult in the nation offered to high school students. This reflects not only preparedness in AP and IB courses, but across all courses at GHS, along with prior academic knowledge and skills gained at the middle and elementary levels.
- Overall student academic performance on the Spring 2023 iReady assessment administered to all students in grades 3-8 for reading and mathematics either matched or (in most cases) exceeded scores from the two previous school years, showing an overall upward trend in both content areas. Not only did regular instruction for all students make a difference, but coordinated intervention services were provided at all levels for students who could benefit from an academic boost.
- PK-12 student data in most non-academic areas indicate positive trending in 2022-23 over the prior year, 2021-22. Truancy dropped to 0.4% (0.5% in the prior year); suspensions dropped to 15 (18 in the prior year); risk assessments dropped to 39 (49 in the prior year); and athletic participation rose to 65% (62% in the prior year).